Almost 20 years have passed since we last visited Parkhead on League Cup duty. In September 1997 a Larsson header was enough to beat us in the quarter final. Phil O’Donnell was in green and white on that occasion.
Our opponents were excused the group stage of the League Cup and this will be only their second domestic game of the season. A late goal gave them a 2-1 win at Tynecastle at the weekend. There will be at least one change from their starting eleven as Griffiths, Ambrose and Johansen are all suspended. Still, Celtic have the biggest squad in the country and Rodgers will have no problems filling jerseys for our meeting.
A happy day last season
Motherwell worked hard for their three points at Rugby Park on Saturday and although an opening day win is always welcome it will provide a special boost for those new to the Scottish game. Carl McHugh will bear a permanent reminder of the victory well after the many stitches in his forehead are removed. He hopes to be passed fit though he may find a place on the bench given that Lasley is now free of suspension.
The game will be played to a finish with extra time and penalties if needed. Motherwell can be backed at 12/1 and a few who see the world through claret and amber lenses may be tempted but if the head rules the heart a home win is more likely, 3-1.